Lee University alumnus Clark Beckham advanced into the finals of "American Idol" at the end of Wednesday night's episode. Joining him in the final three were Jax Cole and Nick Fradiani. Rayvon Owen did not advance.
The news ended a tense week of waiting for Beckham fans after the singer received a harsh critique from "Idol" mentor Scott Borchetta last week and a video package that was edited to portray the singer as obstinate and unwilling to listen to the professional's advice.
"I know Clark very well and that is definitely not true of him," says Dan Buck, Lee University professor. "He definitely respects those opinions but at the same time he wants to be his own man, be true to his music. I think Scott Borchetta was a little rude with Clark and out of character. This was the first week I've ever been nervous for Clark."
Each of "Idol's" Final Four sang three songs Wednesday night and videos of their hometown visits were shown. Members of Lee University's Campus Choir made a surprise visit to White House, Tenn., to join Beckham in a couple of songs during his hometown concert. Beckham sang in the Campus Choir while a student at the Cleveland, Tenn., university.
Clark Beckham performs on "American Idol" in this file photo.Beckham's three songs in Wednesday night's performance were " Earned It," by the Weekend, judges' choice; "Sitting on the Dock of the Bay" by Otis Redding, hometown choice; and "Beautiful Day" by U2, Borchetta's choice.
At the conclusion of "Beautiful Day," host Ryan Seacrest reminded Beckham, "The last person who sang 'Beautiful Day,' Lee DeWyze, won 'American Idol.'"
Viewers will see if history repeats itself next week. The three finalists sing for votes Tuesday night and the winner of Season 14 will be crowned on Wednesday.